Reed announces run for Purcellville Town Council in November Special Election 

Christopher G. “Chris” Reed has announced his run for the vacant Purcellville Town Council seat in the Nov. 7 special election. Reed, a Pennsylvania State University graduate, holds two bachelor’s degrees – one in biology and one in environmental resource management. 

Reed grew up in Ford City, Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed the outdoors and helping his father to build the family home. It was a natural progression then for his father to frequently make the trek from Pennsylvania to help he and his wife, Anu, when they decided to restore their house on E. Main Street.  

The Reeds purchased their historic home in 2012 and proudly worked to restore much of the original character, while also bringing it up to code and making it an enjoyable space. “Of course, I owe a debt of gratitude to my father for all that he taught me.” “I also must give credit to my wife Anu, who was unwavering in her support and wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty!” “Through the adventure, we always made time to have experiences as a family, with our two children.”

Reed, a northern Virginia resident since 2005, works as an environmental scientist with Jacobs Engineering. He develops clean-up and monitoring strategies for various types of environmental contamination. This problem-solving skill, along with his passion for Purcellville, make him the ideal candidate for helping to address the issues facing our town.

Said Reed, “I chose to live in the Town of Purcellville because I love its architecture, incorporation of green space and the sense of calm I get when I drive into town.” I would like it to stay this way, but have yet to see a path-forward for smart growth and sustainability. By that I mean, I would like to see more small-business amenities, such as quaint shops and activity outlets for all ages, not simply annexing land for the purpose of growing our population.” 

Reed said he wants to see Purcellville’s small-town character be preserved, while also nurturing prosperity.

“When you live in a heavily populated area there is no sense of community. Even though you might know your immediate neighbors, it’s not the same small town feel that we have here in Purcellville. We have a town center, which has so much potential to be a drawing point for people,” said Reed. Among local activities, Reed enjoys running and biking with his family on the W&OD trail, kayak-fishing, and landscaping.  

Reed is campaigning to protect Purcellville’s treasured way of life. He will stand up to developer pressure and oppose unnecessarily growing the town’s borders. He supports the Planning Commission’s work on the zoning ordinance, which must reflect the town’s Comprehensive Plan. “The ‘citizens’ wishes should be protected, and I will stand up for that,” he said.

Reed is running on slow growth, debt reduction and controlled spending. Reed supports the current Council majority and commits to considering varying perspectives in keeping Purcellville a great place for us to live, work and enjoy life.